Birth: Clyde Edward "Upside Down" Pangborn was born in Bridgeport, Washington, on October 28, 1894.

Earned nickname "Upside Down" because he liked
to slow-roll airplanes onto their backs and gliding upside-down.

Formed the famous Gates Flying Circus which performed in America as well as in other countries.
Over six years between 1922 and 1928, Pangborn flew
125,000 miles (max speed at that time was aprox. 100 mph) (without
personal injury.)

Held the world record for changing planes in
mid-air.

Flew the first Trans-Pacific flight or 4,500 nonstop miles in 41 hours and 13 minutes, and received the Japanese award money.
Also received the Harmon Aviation Trophy for the Trans-Pacific flight.
For this
monumental accomplishment, several monuments both at Samishiro Beach and
at the airfield in Wenatchee, now called Pangborn Field honor him.

Participated in the MacRobertson International
Air Race in 1934 from London to Melbourne, Australia in a Boeing
transport monoplane (Boeing 247D). Pangborn and Turner came in second
after a series of mishaps and delays - their close finish was a
significant achievement.

Before the Second World War, Pangborn was employed by the Burnelli Company, for whom he demonstrated airplanes and promoted European interest in the company.
He
also became chief test pilot for the Bellanca Aircraft Corporation.

Awards & Honors:

Besides his significant contributions during WW II, Pangborn also received numerous awards and honors:

The Harmon Trophy (For 1st Trans-Pacific Flight)

The King's Medal (England)

The White Medal of Merit (Japan). (For 1st Trans-Pacific Flight)

Shortly before his death, was also selected to receive the Admiral William A. Moffett Maritime Aviation Trophy.

Clyde Pangborn died on March 29, 1958, and was buried with military honors at Arlington National Cemetery.